I have a mil FN M98 action (well actually a whole rifle with nice stock and trigger/bolt etc done).

Can the 98 handle the .404 and if so just what needs to be done to fit them in....

TIA

Hux

Hux---

Yes, the miltary FN can handle a 404 but it takes a lot of work and some money.

The receiver magazine opening has to be opened front and (mostly) to the rear to fit a NEW magazine box. The rails also have the be opened wider and the feed ramp widened. The bolt face has to be opened and the extractor refitted..... It's best to cut away the forward end of the rear bridge and fit a new magnum extractor. That gives you much more room to load and unload.

It's a fairly expensive proposition.

DON'T fall for the cheaper method of stretching the mag box to the front only. In that direction lies a wreck.

YES

T. Blackburn makes a new flooplate/ magazine box for the 404 that is opened to the rear. It's one heck of work doing this , but can be done. The ejector must also be shortend and modified to work properly. It will be tight in a standard 98. Find a bigger action is my recomendation

Good Luck

/ JOHAN

[ 10-08-2002, 21:04: Message edited by: JOHAN ]

For those semi-nasty emailers accusing me of overstating the case on "cheaper method" of stretching the action to 375H&H length by cutting the feed ramp.



In saving money by stretching the standard mag by spotwelding in a front extention, the receiver failed by deforming the severely thinned lower lug recess.



This is why hot loads string groups vertically. the bolt is bending because the lugs are unequally supported.

Mr. Belk, excellent point. It makes perfect sense also.

Axel

Jack Belk

Great pictures!!

How did Jeffery's or Rigby due it in the 'Olden Days'?

Once again the brains on this list answer the questions and even with pics....thanks guys.

Damn what to do with this thing....keep the Whelen chamber, ream to 358 Norma Mag, The stock is very nice (even lovely) but the barrel channel was cut for a heavy profile (@#4) which in my mind doesn't sit well with a mid bore like the Whelen, I guess 458 Win Mag could be an option?
Other suggestion for a standard 98 large bore?

.416 Tayler is a nice option. Economical too compared to converting the 98 to handle 404 rounds.

Hux

Take a look at Ken Howells cartridge 416 howell, based on a shortend 404 necked to 416. That is the best tip I can give you.

/ JOHAN

[ 10-09-2002, 21:14: Message edited by: JOHAN ]

Johan, Bear Claw thanks, didn't even think of those two.....hmm .416 in the land of plentiful Woodleigh's

Thanks again.

Hux